How To Reduce Tartar on Your Pet's Teeth

Does your pet quickly build up tartar on his teeth?  While brushing and regular dental visits are essential, there is a lot you can do to reduce tartar build-up on your dog or cat's teeth. Tartar is the accumulation of plaque that has remained on and between the teeth. While age, health, breed and hygiene are factors, diet and poor digestion play a central role in your pet's tartar control and dental health. 

If the plaque is not removed, it may start to combine with the saliva and begin to mineralize, into tartar, in just 3-5 days. If left untreated the tartar can cause the gums to become inflamed and red, pockets may form between the gums and the teeth and it can allow bacteria to grow, which could lead to tooth loss, bone loss and widespread infection. 

The accumulation of tartar is a warning sign.  If your pet seems fine but is accumulating a lot of tartar quickly, there may be underlying digestive symptoms that need to be addressed.

It is important to treat and control tartar accumulation for three very important reasons:

• to maintain the health of teeth and gums
• to guard against infection spreading to other parts of the body
• rapid buildup or problem teeth are often a sign of poor digestion


A common myth that simply giving pets hard, crunchy food to prevent dental problems has not proved true in veterinary research. It is the quality of ingredients and your pet’s ability to digest them that will reduce tartar and tooth decay. Saliva is a core part of tartar accumulation and acidic saliva (due to digestive upset and acid stomach) can result in acid erosion of the teeth. When you improve your pet’s diet and digestion, their teeth and gums will improve too. Be sure to ask about anesthesia free dental cleanings in your area and if possible brush your pet’s teeth.

Feeding fresh, easily digestible pet food ingredients will promote healthy teeth and gums.   Ensuring your pet is digesting food properly is key.  Signs of poor digestion include gas, bad breath, hunching over after meals, loose stool, licking or smacking of the lips, vomiting and eating excessive amounts of grass. 

Natural supplements that help to improve your pet's digestion can also reduce the tartar on your pet's teeth.  Since the mouth is the beginning of the digestive process, these supplements help to maintain a healthy digestive process.  Good digestion results in saliva with the proper pH which can greatly impact your pet's teeth and gums. 

Power Probiotic - The best probiotic for pets!  Backed by scientific research, this powerful, multi-strain formula promotes the growth of  good, friendly bacteria which boosts your pet's immune system.  Pure and natural, Power Probiotic does not contain any fillers.  Supports a healthy mouth, digestive system and immune system.

Gastro ULC   When pets have acid reflux it can stomach acids to back up into the esophagus and mouth.  This can lead to erosion of the teeth and other periodontal problems.  Pets with acid reflux tend to have bad breath as well. Gastro ULC  relieves acid stomach pain and repairs inflamed tissues. 

K9 Digestive Enzymes- This powerful digestive enzyme is more complex than typical pet enzymes because it contains 2 ingredients essential (Ox bile extract and HCL) for the digestion of fats and protein..  When food is poorly digested, it creates gas and pain and this product seems to really make a difference.  K9 Digestive Enzymes is very helpful for reducing tartar related to poor digestion.

Colostrum for Pets-  Colostrum has been shown in research studies to enhance digestion and improve the immune system.  Colostrum is very helpful for pets with bad breath, gingivitis and stomatitis.  Ask Ariel Colostrum For Pets contains tegricel colostrum which is backed by scientific research and proven to be more effective than general colostrum products.  Note: Colostrum is derived from dairy and should not be used by pets with a known dairy allergy.

Lypozyme -(cats and small dogs) a gentle, tasteless, easy to use enzyme formula that helps pets digest protein and fats.  The small amount of powder in the capsule (which can be easily opened and mixed into food) makes this product especially easy to administer to small pets and finicky eaters.

"Our senior husky Legend was starting to get a lot of tartar on his teeth.  Even though we would go for regular anesthesia-free cleanings and fed him a raw food diet, he still had tartar accumulation.  We noticed that sometimes at night Legend would be panting a little and realized he might have some indigestion.  We added K9 Digestive Enzymes and Gastro ULC to his food and on the next checkup, he had a lot less tartar and his tummy noises went away.  After awhile he seemed fine so we discontinued the supplements.  When we went for a teeth cleaning, we were told his tartar accumulation had gotten really bad!  Since then we have always used K9 Digestive Enzymes and Gastro ULC at both breakfast and dinner and his teeth have really improved"  Davis Family, CA.

Holistic Treatments For Feline Rodent Ulcers

Updated 3/29/24

Does your cat have inflamed sores, blisters or ulcers around the mouth?  Is your cat losing weight, showing signs of discomfort or pain and not wanting to eat? These symptoms are signs of feline rodent ulcers.

Traditional veterinary treatment for feline rodent ulcers is the use of steroids and antibiotics which can provide short-term relief. Using these medications long-term can have side effects and reduced efficacy. The good news though is that holistic treatments can be used (diet changes and supplements) to help control symptoms, minimize flare-ups and change your cat's quality of life for the long term! 

What Are Feline Rodent Ulcers?

Feline Rodent Ulcers (also known has eosinophilic granuloma, feline eosinophilic granuloma, feline rodent ulcer, indolent ulcer, and eosinophilic granuloma ulcer of cats) is a non-contagious condition, unique to cats, where oral mucosal lesions develop. They can occur at any age but appear more often in female cats.  In other words, open sores (similar to cold sores) appear, most often, on the upper lip of cats. Your veterinarian will typically diagnose rodent ulcers by the appearance and location of the ulcer (in questionable cases, a biopsy or needle aspirate cytology can be done to rule out malignant transformation).  You might first notice a yellow or pink shiny spot, which deepens into a lesion. The sores can be very painful and hinder your cat's ability to eat. Their mouth might emit an unpleasant odor and over time, can become disfigured. Your cat may also show a behavioral change (aggression or withdrawal).  

Conventional Veterinary Treatments For Feline Rodent Ulcers

The conventional veterinary treatment for indolent ulcers almost always involves the use of steroids to calm the inflammation and antibiotics to clear up any secondary bacterial infection.  While this may provide short-term relief, these medications can weaken your cat's immune system and cause side effects.  Genetics, allergies, and autoimmune disease are common reasons why cats may develop this condition and have it long-term.  Thus the goal is to introduce holistic veterinary treatments to help support your cat's immune system and minimize the frequency of flare-ups. 

When your cat has an autoimmune condition such as feline rodent ulcers, your kitty's immune system is so overloaded that the cat's body forms antibodies to its own tissues and attacks itself.  The onset of the attacks is associated with triggers such as food allergies, exposure to chemicals, vaccines and stress. Autoimmune conditions cannot be cured but they can be controlled.  Holistic veterinary treatments, in conjunction with conventional treatments, can minimize flare-ups and reduce the need for medications.  Holistic treatments entail feeding your cat a hypoallergenic, anti-inflammatory diet and using supplements that modulate the immune system. 

 

Holistic Supplements to Treat Feline Rodent Ulcers

The following supplements have been helpful for cats with feline rodent ulcers, viruses and other autoimmune conditions.  These supplements have been used successfully in veterinary hospitals since 2005:

Immune Harmony- this plant sterol formula is designed specifically for autoimmune diseases.  It helps to modulate your cat's immune system and is very well-tolerated.

Power Probiotic - essential for all cats, especially if your cat has been on antibiotics that kill off the friendly bacteria.  Power Probiotic is the best probiotic for cats as it is pure, natural and there are absolutely NO fillers!  Many cats love the taste and will eat the plain powder--please click on the link to see the video. Power Probiotic promotes the growth of friendly bacteria which ensure a healthy intestinal ecosystem and enhances overall immunity.

Quent drops - this powerful anti-viral formula is used in conjunction with NOt drops.  Quent and NOT are your best line of defense against viruses, infections and a weakened immune system.  These homeopathic, gentle drops are easy to administer and start helping your cat right away.

NOT Drops- a best seller for fighting infections, use NOT drops in conjunction with Quent drops to give your cat immune support to overcome feline rodent ulcers.  These homeopathic drops are used on alternating nights with the Quent drops

Pumpkin Finds Relief

Pumpkin

“This is Pumpkin, who has been using your supplements  (Immune Harmony, Power Probiotic, Quent/NOT drops and Silver Support Spray), for about 8 months or more. He has Stomatitis, rodent ulcers, and many autoimmune issues. He has not had ANY flare-ups since using the products, switching his food, and taking him off steroids which the Vet kept him on. Again, I thank you more than anything... He is my angel, and you have given me the chance at giving him the healthy life he deserves. Thank you.”  Cassandra, Florida

 

Diet For Cats With Feline Rodent Ulcers

Changing your cat's diet to a hypoallergenic, anti-inflammatory diet along with using supplements to modulate the immune system can make a dramatic improvement in your cat's quality of life and comfort. Many foods such as dry kibble can not only be painful to eat but may also contain ingredients that worsen the syndrome and increase flare-ups.  If you include your cat's diet and symptoms on the order form at checkout, AskAriel.com will include a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with the product directions. 

Need help with your cat?  Click Here to visit Ask Ariel

Author: Susan Davis

Original Post 9/21//14

Updated 3/29/24

Too Many Carbohydrates Can Cause Problems For A Dog Or Cat's Health

 

Why are too many carbohydrates a problem for pets? Carbohydrates convert to sugar and can lead to yeast, diabetes and even cancer. While protein and fats are slow to be digested, the sugar from carbohydrates are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, spiking (and then dropping) insulin-making pets hungry faster. Most notably, too many carbohydrates can affect immunity and worsen autoimmune disorders.  Cats are carnivores and thrive on a high protein diet. Many cat owners whose kitties have autoimmune disorders (such as stomatitis) are feeding their cats dry food not realizing that the carbohydrates in the food may be worsening their cat's condition---the carbohydrates convert to sugar feeding the bacteria in the mouth. Carbohydrates and cat health is an important issue to consider when choosing a diet for your cat.  

Is your dog always acting starved? Could be that your dog is eating a kibble diet loaded with carbohydrates. Consider a raw frozen diet or mixing in a higher protein canned food and reducing the overall carbohydrates. Visit AskAriel.com for more pet nutrition tips!

How to Promote Healthy Teeth and Gums in Your Pet

Did you know??? Using fresh, easily digestible pet food ingredients will promote healthy teeth and gums. A common myth that simply giving pets hard, crunchy food to prevent dental problems has not proven to be true in veterinary research. It is the quality of ingredients and your pet’s ability to digest them that will reduce tartar and tooth decay

Signs of poor digestion include gas, bad breath, hunching over after meals, loose stool, licking or smacking of the lips, vomiting and eating excessive amounts of grass. Ensuring your pet is digesting food is the first step to overall good dental health, but having regular dental check-ups are also important.

Natural supplements that help to improve your pet's digestion can also reduce the tartar on your pet's teeth.  Since the mouth is the beginning of the digestive process, these supplements help to maintain a healthy digestive process.  Good digestion results in saliva with the proper pH which can greatly impact your pet's teeth and gums. 

Power Probiotic - The best probiotic for pets!  Backed by scientific research, this powerful, multi-strain formula promotes the growth of  good, friendly bacteria which boosts your pet's immune system.  Pure and natural, Power Probiotic does not contain any fillers.  Supports a healthy mouth, digestive system and immune system.

Gastro ULC   When pets have acid reflux it can cause stomach acids to back up into the esophagus and mouth.  This can lead to erosion of the teeth and other periodontal problems.  Pets with acid reflux tend to have bad breath as well. Gastro ULC  relieves acid stomach pain and repairs inflamed tissues. 

Colostrum for Pets-  Colostrum has been shown in research studies to enhance digestion and improve the immune system.  Colostrum is very helpful for pets with bad breath, gingivitis and stomatitis.  Ask Ariel Colostrum For Pets contains tegricel colostrum which is backed by scientific research and proven to be more effective than general colostrum products.  Note: Colostrum is derived from dairy and should not be used by pets with a known dairy allergy.

Natural Remedies For Cats With Ear And Eye Infections

We want to express our heartfelt thanks to Shammy’s Mom Carolyn for adopting this very sick rescue kitty and sharing her Ask Ariel success story:

“I just received another order of wonderful products. Here's how your products have really changed her life. My sweet Shammy had a rough start in life. Stomatitis, chronic ear and eye infections. I didn't want her life spent at the vet getting steroid shots and constantly having to be on antibiotics. A full mouth extraction...suggested by one vet was NOT an option for this sweet girl who already had 3 surgeries in her short life (including an eye removal).  Ask Ariel's products have truly done wonders for her. I give her Power Probiotic and The Immune Support Kit.  I am happy to report no more eye or ear infections and her mouth, although not completely healed, is so much better than it was over 3 months ago. She is eating like a champ now! I could not get her to eat more than a few bites of food before because her mouth was so inflamed. Thank you! These products are amazing! My other kitty who is 4- months is on the products as well. He came to me with an upper respiratory infection, but now his eyes and nose are completely clear since taking these immune support supplements for cats. What a great change that has occurred in both my cats overall health!

With Gratitude,
Carolyn G

                               What Can Cause Eye Infections In Cats?

Cats can develop eye infections for various reasons. Some common causes include:

Bacterial Infections: Bacteria such as Chlamydia or Mycoplasma can lead to conjunctivitis in cats.

Viral Infections: Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV) are common viral infections that can affect a cat's eyes, causing symptoms like redness, discharge, and squinting.

Fungal Infections: Fungi like Cryptococcus or Aspergillus can cause eye infections, especially in cats with compromised immune systems.

Allergies: Cats can be allergic to various environmental factors, leading to eye irritation and infections.

Foreign Bodies: Particles, dust, or debris can enter a cat's eye, causing irritation and potential infection.

Trauma: Injury or trauma to the eye, such as scratches or puncture wounds, can create a gateway for bacteria to cause infections.

Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the eye, can be caused by various factors, including infections.

Blocked Tear Ducts: Blocked tear ducts can lead to increased tear production and create a conducive environment for bacterial growth.

Upper Respiratory Infections: Respiratory infections, such as feline upper respiratory infection (URI), can affect the eyes as well.

If you suspect your cat has an eye infection, it is essential to seek veterinary attention promptly. The veterinarian can determine the cause of the infection and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, antiviral medications, or other interventions depending on the underlying cause.

Feeding Tips For Your Finicky Kitty

Rocky (17+); Fred (14) and Smokey (10 )

Deborah Albritton

Meet Deborah Albritton, M.P.A.
Ask Ariel friend and client

Ask Ariel friend and client, Deborah Albritton is an experienced cat owner with three senior kitties.  Rocky, Fred and Smokey are pampered to the fullest!   Over the years, Deborah has educated herself and learned from experience about all different ways to transition her finicky kitties to healthier food.  Since she has had so much success, we would love to share her tips with you!

First and foremost choose a high quality food.  I have seen first-hand the difference that a true quality diet can make.  Choose brands that do not contain grains or chemicals and limit poultry and seafood since these foods can be inflammatory for a lot of cats with health conditions such as feline herpes and stomatitis.  Some of my kitties' favorites are Addiction, Instinct and Ziwi Peak.  I only use canned food or freeze dried raw as toppers.  I don't use dry kibble due to the added carbohydrates,  poor digestibility and overprocessing of the food.

Toppers
I have used toppings probably as the best way to “bribe” my kitties to eat new foods!   I have 2 cats that do really well and I still have one (10 year  old) that will not eat rabbit or venison.  So, it can be very difficult.  I think the key is to use the healthy toppings—in moderation. Some favorites are freeze dried foods such as : Natures Variety Instinct Raw Daily Boost (fine powder), Dr. Harvey's tripe, Feline Instincts beef or Stella and Chewy's.

I grind up the topper in a blender and have little containers labeled with their favorite toppings in a little basket. (Word of warning…too much topping can be constipating—so, be careful – to go gingerly with these as toppers!)  Many can be mixed with warm water as a little treat for topping.. which may work like a  “gravy topping”.

Hide the Supplements in Something Yummy!
I hide their  supplements in all meat baby food (e.g. ham or beef) with no issue. ( just make sure no onions—which is often in veggie broth or chicken broth in commercial products) I also use different textures of food.  For example, Pride By Instinct offers rabbit flavors in different textures so you can see if your kitty prefers minced vs pate, for example.  Rocky, Smokey and Fred at different times, have benefited from these Ask Ariel supplements:   Colostrum for Pets, Power Probiotic, Notatum, Quentans, Roqueforti, Kidney Health, Renelix, Lypozyme and more.

Transition Your Pet's Diet Changes Slowly  

Here is a suggested transition schedule:  

•  First 4 days   ¼ new  ¾ old
•  Next three days  ½ new  ½ old
•  Final three days  ¾ new food and ¼ old   

If your cat is “super fussy”,  go even slower.   Sometimes just a 1/4 teaspoon a day of the new food until eventually they get used to the new smell and texture.

Fiber
We do add a little pumpkin—for our elderly cats--- helps since their mobility and motility slows with age. Also, 1/8 teaspoon ground flaxseed 2x a day mixed in food.

Ear Infections in Cats

Although, ear infections are much more common in dogs than in cats, cats can get them too.  (If you have a dog that is getting chronic ear infections, yeast and allergies are typically the cause.)  Some of the signs that could indicate your cat has an ear infection include:

• Scratching or pawing at their ear 
• Shaking or tilting of the head in the direction of the painful ear
• Black or yellowish discharge
• Redness or swelling of the ear flap or ear canal
• Waxy buildup on or near the ear canal
• Discharge from the ear that resembles coffee grounds (a symptom of ear mites)
• Strong odor
• Hearing loss
• Loss of balance or disorientation 

Natural Treatments For Cats with Ear Infections

The first step is to determine the underlying cause of the ear infection.   If your vet determines that your cat has ear mites or a yeast or bacterial infection, these can be treated with anti-parasitic, anti-fungals or antibiotics, as appropriate. These all come in ointment or ear drop form. However, since ear infections can frequently return, it's important to use a natural, holistic approach to support your cat's immune system.  Using a few natural remedies along with diet changes can help prevent ear infections from returning and build a strong immune system.

         Home Remedies For Cats With Ear Infections

• Power Probiotic- essential for your pet's good health. Supports digestion, helps fight infection and enhances overall immunity.  Very important if your cat has taken any antibiotics.

                                                     

                                                                   Immune Support Kit

Immune Support Kit - Contains three tasteless liquid formulas:  Silver Immune Support, NotaSAN and QuentaSAN drops.  These three remedies can provide fast relief for your cat's stomatitis and are easy to administer.  Save on the package price when you buy all three natural remedies together.  

• Silver Immune Support For Pets--  Silver Immune Support is an all-natural, easy to use remedy to help your pet recover from a bacterial infection or viral flare-up.
• NotaSAN Drops Natural homeopathic formula that fights infections. First line of defense for infections in cats. Can be used safely long-term to prevent recurrences. 
• QuentaSAN Drops- Excellent for fighting infections, viruses, and immune support.  Use along with the NotaSAN on alternating nights for best results.

Diet Changes Can Help
A change in diet can also make a big difference as allergies and yeast can weaken a cat's immune system. Avoid dry food as the high carbohydrate content can contribute to yeast overgrowth.  Please include your cat's diet on the order form at checkout.  The AskAriel nutritionist will include a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with the product directions.

What causes ear infections in cats?

Parasites: The ear mite, Otodectes cynotis, is a common cause of ear problems, especially in kittens. 
Allergies: Allergies, either to food or environmental, may have ear problems.  It actually can be one of the first signs of a pet's allergies.  Allergies can also lead to secondary infections with bacteria or yeast. Treating the allergies is key to ending a cycle of allergy induced ear infections.
Bacteria and Yeast:  Under normal conditions, your cat has a good defense system to keep the ear healthy. However, if the ear environment changes due to allergies, hormone abnormalities, or moisture, the bacteria and yeast  can grow quickly, bacteria and yeast love to grow in warm, dark places.  
Ear Conditions: Wax buildup in the ear canal and thick hair in the ear canal
Foreign Bodies:  Especially if you have a cat who goes outside, be sure to routinely check their ears for foreign objects.
Trauma: Injury or self-inflicted trauma to the ear (from scratching ) can lead to infections.
Hormonal Abnormalities and Other Health Conditions: Deficiencies or excesses of various hormones can result in skin and ear problems, as will immune system disorders.

There are many reasons cats can get ear infections. A holistic approach using a few immune support supplements along with a diet change can help your cat feel much better.

Food Allergies in Cats

 Did you know?  Many cats are allergic to or intolerant of both fish and poultry? Why is this an issue? The reason this is important is that most pet owners don't even know that it is the fish and poultry contributing to their cats illness. Is your cat vomiting, having diarrhea, suffering from chronic UTIs, stomatitis or Upper Respiratory Infections? If so then consider a "novel protein" diet. A novel protein is a protein source your cat hasn't eaten before such as venison or rabbit. Once an intolerant or allergic food is eliminated, your cat's immune system will get stronger. Of course, in transitioning diets, be sure the new novel protein diet is grain-free and use raw frozen, canned or freeze dried to eliminate the starchy carbs.  To read the entire article, click here

Natural Treatments For Autoimmune Disease in Dogs and Cats

Autoimmune disease is common in cats and dogs. Pets can have unusual, seemingly unrelated symptoms making it difficult to diagnose. Examples: stomatitis, IBD, Pillow Paw. Steroids are the most common treatment but with an anti-inflammatory, low carb diet and a few supplements, you can greatly improve your pet's well being and reduce the need for steroids. Please click on the link to read our newsletter about natural treatments for autoimmune disease in dogs and cats.

Have a question about your pet?  Email us at support@askariel.com  Please know we cannot provide any veterinary or consultative advice but we will be happy to provide you with articles so that you can make an informed decision about your pet's next steps.

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Use our Bad Dog Breath Kit and your dog will be much more kissable in no time! Helps improve digestion, stomach issues and overall health. Be sure to get your dog's teeth cleaned too!

Bad Dog Breath Kit includes:
Soothing Digestive Relief Formula (100 caps)---Helps break down food, reduces stomach upset and improves digestion so food doesn't "sit" too long in the digestive tract. When food doesn't break down immediately it can ferment and cause gas, bad breath and digestive upset. The product helps stop tummy rumbling and painful gas. Stools will be firmer and your pet will feel so much better!

Probiotic (60 caps)--Adds proper flora to help reduce the toxins that can cause odors. Helps with diarrhea, indigestion, gum problems, stomatitis. Especially needed if your pet has recently been on antibiotics!

Vitamineral Green 1 ounce Trial Size Jar ----Helps "alkalize and deodorize" your dog's intestinal tract and provides valuable vitamins and minerals to greatly reduce grass eating which often is a sign of an acid stomach.Excellent value---great results!!! Veterinarian-approved

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